You’ve heard Bloodbuzz Ohio and seen The National perform Terrible Love on Fallon. Now, the New York Times is offering a full stream of the highly anticipated High Violet, due out May 11, to accompany an NYT Magazine feature on the band.
After a couple listens, I’d say Bloodbuzz Ohio, Afraid of Everyone and England are the initial highlights. Also, is it just me or does Matt Berninger’s voice seem to dominate the mix? I guess it’s sort of hard to tone down that baritone, which has become a trademark of the band.
Anyway, that’s a small quibble for what is sounding like an astounding album.
[STREAM]: The National | High Violet
While I can’t wait for this album, I am trying very hard to hold off on listening to it until I pick up a physical copy. I want that complete first-listen experience when it comes out. Same with the new LCD Soundsystem and Hold Steady records, which are also streaming out there. Nerdy, I know.
I do the exact same thing, and am holding out myself on listening to this one. Actually, I always like my first listen to be a drive test with the album.